11 observations of a practice (parent handout)

Many coaches have differing opinions on whether they like or dislike having parents around during practice. Some coaches want parents involved and engaged, but there is a thin line between being engaged and hovering over both the player and the coach. To combat some of these "I know what's best" tendencies, print and hand out these 11 practice observations for parents to take note of about their player so that parent, player and you the coach are on the same page about the athlete's attitude and performance.

Here are things to look for in your player's skill acquisition and drill performance.

1 | Do they have good athletic ready position/anticipatory reaction? Are they surprised when reacting to the ball?

2 | Do they execute the skill properly with concerted effort to do so?

3 | Do they "better the ball"? Does the ball go to the desired target? If they receive an errant ball, do they improve its course?

4 | Do they stay involved the whole play?

5 | Do they move in a drill when not playing the ball? Or do they watch in an upright posture?

6 | Do they possess a demeanor indicative of intensity and give an all-out effort?

7 | Do they respond positively with body language and follow up with an effort to change technique?

8 | Do they facilitate the drill by encouraging others and being emotionally involved?

9 | Do they show frustration after making mistakes and solicit attention to themselves? How often do they follow up mistakes with "My fault" or "I'm sorry".

10 | Do they handle pressure situations or are they a drill killer?

11 | Do they take their best practice performance and translate this into the game situation? Are they a driller or a gamer?